Thailand has recently introduced important new diving regulations — a positive move aimed at protecting the country’s fragile marine ecosystems. Whether you’re planning your next diving holiday or already working in the industry, these updates are something everyone should be aware of.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key changes:
1. Camera Use is Now Restricted for Beginner Divers
Under the new rules, underwater cameras are no longer allowed for divers with an Open Water Diver (OWD) certification who have fewer than 40 logged dives.
- Who can use cameras?
- Advanced Open Water Divers (AOWD) and above
- Divers who have completed a certified Underwater Imaging Specialty course
This rule is designed to protect marine life from accidental damage caused by divers still mastering their buoyancy and awareness underwater. It’s not a punishment — it’s a way to ensure that divers have the experience and control needed to photograph responsibly without harming coral reefs or marine animals.
Want to start taking photos underwater sooner?
The PADI Underwater Imaging Specialty can be completed in just one day!
Not only will you learn how to safely and effectively use an underwater camera, but you’ll also improve your buoyancy skills — making you a more confident and eco-conscious diver. Plus, after completing the specialty, you’ll be officially allowed to carry a camera under the new rules!
2. New Limits on Group Sizes for Better Dive Quality
The regulations now set clear maximum ratios to improve safety and dive quality:
- Fun Dives: Maximum 4 certified divers per guide or instructor
- Courses: Maximum 4 students per instructor
- Discover Scuba Diving: Maximum 2 participants per instructor
Smaller groups mean better supervision, a more personal experience, and less environmental impact at dive sites — a win for everyone!
3. No Instructor Photography During Courses
Instructors are now officially prohibited from taking photos or videos while teaching courses. This has been standard procedure with Fast Manta already for years.
This important change ensures that instructors remain fully focused on student supervision and safety throughout the training. It also eliminates potential distractions that could compromise the quality of instruction.
While most diving organizations have already banned underwater imaging during courses in their training standards, it’s a positive step that there are now also legal consequences for instructors who fail to comply with these rules.
Why These Changes Matter
The goal behind these new rules is simple: to protect Thailand’s beautiful but vulnerable marine life. Coral reefs and marine ecosystems are under increasing pressure from climate change, pollution, and over-tourism. Every step we can take to minimize human impact underwater matters.
By:
- Limiting camera use to experienced divers,
- Keeping group sizes small, and
- Ensuring instructors stay focused on training,
Thailand is promoting higher quality diving experiences that are safer for both divers and the environment.
Responsibility Starts With Us
It’s now the responsibility of all instructors, dive guides, and dive centers to ensure these rules are properly followed. These aren’t just government regulations — they are part of a broader movement toward more sustainable, responsible diving.
At Fast Manta Diving Krabi, we fully support these new measures. We believe that focusing on quality over quantity will lead to healthier reefs, better diver education, and unforgettable experiences for years to come.
We truly hope these steps will inspire every dive center, instructor, and diver in Thailand to do their part in protecting our underwater world.
